Photography

a visit to soufriere.

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On one of the last days in Saint Lucia, I visited the town of Soufriere.

My hotel was located in the hills above the small city. From above, the coastal town looked picturesque. Pastel hued dots of homes quilted the shoreline nestled between lush green hills and the grand Pitons in the distance.

Up close, when these dots came into focus, the reality was less picturesque. Many houses were in a state of disrepair, exasperated by the horrific storm that hit the Caribbean on Christmas Eve causing massive mud slides and flooding.

Yet despite any damage, each home retained a sense of cheer. Brightly painted shutters flanked broken windows, vibrant lace curtains floated in the gentle breeze, cheery Christmas lights wove between the streets, and hopeful hand-painted messages added personality to door frames and wood siding.

The homes pictured here were particularly captivating. Each had a strong sense of personality - a sadness but also an optimism - that I am hoping to capture in some paintings down the road.

Shot in Soufriere, Saint Lucia. All photos by Nicole Weiler.

sun and scarves.

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As much as I love New York, adjusting back to Manhattan's grey winter weather after a week and a half of sunny island life has not been easy.

Just over a week ago, the most I had to layer on before walking out the door was a substantial amount of sunscreen. My days were spent in lightweight tees, giant dark sunnies, and my favorite pair of slightly oversized, slightly torn jean cut offs. Simple, uncomplicated, and practical styling.

Never without my favorite accessory, I utilized a new silk scarf for extra sun protection and a pop of color. Wrapped around the head while catching some rays, tied around the waist during a lazy beach stroll, or draped over the shoulders during afternoon cocktails, a colorful print scarf makes for a versatile beach necessity.

Shot at Anse Chastanet Beach, Saint Lucia. All photos by Nicole Weiler. Wearing {in addition to some serious SPF}:

Hermes silk scarf, Stella McCartney sunnies, American Apparel bikini, yellow gold hoops, diamond pendant necklace {designed by Nicole Weiler}

new beginnings.

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The beginning of a new year tends to encourage a time for self reflection. As one year comes to a close, one considers the lessons learned over the past twelve months, evaluates the goals that were achieved that year, and contemplates what is ahead in the coming year.

I had plenty of time to reflect on these topics over the holidays. Following a very exciting and busy November and December (that left little time for blogging... and more importantly sleeping), I escaped to Saint Lucia for a much needed break from reality.

With its relaxing sandy beaches, warm aqua water, and absolutely stunning sunsets, Saint Lucia provided me with the perfect environment to reflect and recuperate.

I realized that 2013 taught me two incredibly important lessons:

1. Appreciate and acknowledge the Now.

2. I have complete control over my success and happiness.

I look forward to all of the wonderful things 2014 will bring - and that I will create.

After all, to quote scientist Alan Kay: "The best way to predict the future is to invent it."

Shot in Saint Lucia. All photos by Nicole Weiler.